Maker interview with Jemma Olson

Having recognized the passion, drive, and pure enjoyment of making things that each Making It contestant illustrates, Makerviews is excited to have the chance to highlight, feature, and share insights from each contestant. This Making It series gives a deeper look into these makers’ lives. The format: Makerviews asks these talented individuals two questions. That’s it, two questions. Learn more about this series.

Jemma Olson is a talented and heartfelt maker, gardener, cook, Mother, and Grandma. Growing up in Idaho, she started crafting at a young age, learning to sew, weave, and farm from her family and neighbors. Jemma now works, blogs, and makes things from her home in Colorado.

Check out this interview with Jemma Olson, maker from NBC’s Making It.

What inspires you to keep making things?

"I have been driven artistically from a very young age and the mediums I use vary throughout the seasons. My parents are the original Makers. My Dad made some of his own tools and Mom made most of my clothes and of course quilts and pillowcases too. As an adult I am driven to create daily by the colorful world around me and the intense pleasure I receive from sharing the joy of creating with my family, friends and through intimate workshops. When you create, you create an everlasting story and that story carries on throughout generations. Of course, I love to sell my items too and you can find me on Etsy!"

What one piece of advice would you give to other makers?

"Stay true to yourself, your talent, technique, design and heart. Trends come and go and let those trends inspire you, don’t be a stick-in-the mud. However, make what resonates with you and you’ll be successful one way or another. Remember time passes anyway so do what you love!"

"Stay true to yourself, your talent, technique, design and heart." — Jemma Olson

Be sure to check out Jemma Olson’s website, Instagram, and Facebook Page.

View and learn more about the Making It interview series.

Thank you all for reading this interview - get out there and make things!